Representatives from the Coastal Prairie Conservancy (CPC) and Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund gathered together on Thursday to celebrate a continuation of their partnership to conserve and restore the coastal prairie. The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund provided a generous grant to the organization to further its mission of conservation in Texas.

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s is creating North America’s largest conservation movement through the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund by uniting more than 200 million passionate customers, dedicated team members, industry partners, and leading conservation organizations to collectively shape the future of the outdoors and all who love it for generations to come.

Among those representing the various entities were Ali Dodson, Advancement Director for Coastal Prairie Conservancy, Chris Harris, Mayor Pro Tem for City of Katy and Advisory Board Member for Coastal Prairie Conservancy, Lynn Paulsen, Advisory Board Member for Coastal Prairie Conservancy, J.R. Young, General Manager for Bass Pro Shops, and Andy Wohlgemuth, Special Events Outfitter for Bass Pro Shops.

Dodson said prairie and wetlands conservation is important for the wildlife in the area, providing rich habitat for resident and migratory waterfowl. But just as important is what it does for people.

“Prairie grasses absorb and hold back floodwaters while capturing carbon and wetlands protect our water quality and quantity. Wide open spaces also provide a place for our community to enjoy the benefits of nature,” Dodson said. “Financial support from generous partners like Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund allows us to leverage other philanthropic dollars and complete essential conservation and restoration projects on the Katy Prairie just outside Houston.”

A number of different conservation and restoration projects are on-going, helping to ensure that present and future generations have healthier land and healthier watersheds.

The Coastal Prairie Conservancy, formerly the Katy Prairie Conservancy, works to sustain a resilient Texas by preserving coastal prairies, wetlands, farms, and ranches. For more information, visit the website coastalprairieconservancy.org.